For many of us, the news from around the world feels hard to read right now.
If this includes you, and you need to ease how you’re feeling, we’ve got some tips you can try.
Small things like making time for an activity that lifts your spirits, or finding ways to create a positive impact, can help make a difference.
Almost a third (32%) of bosses report stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health problems as a reason staff give for sickness absence.
A YouGov survey, commissioned by workplace expert Acas, asked employers what the top three reasons employees give for being off sick from work.
Almost two-thirds (62%) said that workers report their absences as being due to minor illnesses, such as coughs, colds and the flu, while nearly a quarter (23%) said that the absences are due to headaches and migraines.
The poll was commissioned ahead of new changes to statutory sick pay that will take effect in a few weeks’ time due to new rules introduced by the Employment Rights Act 2025.
From 6 April, workers will be eligible for statutory sick pay for their first day of illness rather than the fourth day and workers will no longer need to earn a minimum amount to be eligible
Acas Head of Inclusivity, Julie Dennis, said: “Our findings reveal that 1 in 3 bosses report mental health problems as a key reason for staff absence. It’s a surprising result alongside the top reason for sickness being coughs, colds, flu and other minor illnesses.
“Bosses need to ensure that their work environments are healthy places to work as well as prepare for the new rules on sick pay that will coming in a few weeks’ time.
“Workers should also look after their own health and wellbeing too. If they are experiencing stress, they should talk to their manager as soon as they can. Acas has good practice advice and training in this area.”
Acas has good practice advice to help bosses manage sickness absence at work:
Providing training for managers on how to support employees through periods of illness can help with absence rates.
Employers that offer flexible working can also help promote a healthy work environment and prevent high levels of sickness absence.
Good mediation services at work can help resolve any issues that is sparking sickness absence among staff.
Easily accessible illness and absence policies will make it clear what’s expected of both employers and workers if someone needs time off work.
Acas has updated its advice on sick pay to reflect the new changes in the law from the Employment Right Act 2025 that will apply from 6 April and how they compare to the current rules: Statutory sick pay – Sick pay – Acas.
Acas also has training courses for employers on managing absence.
This week is #DebtAwarenessWeek
You might wonder – what’s that got to do with mental health?
Well, a lot, actually.
Money’s harder to manage if you have a mental health problem. And being in debt makes it harder to look after your mental health.
That’s why it can feel really difficult to get out of a debt – mental health cycle.
Thankfully, if this is something you recognise, there are organisations out there ready to help you. Check out these organisations or our website for more help and support. 
New data has revealed that over half of adults in Scotland (59%) would appreciate kind words from a stranger if they were visibly upset. However, nearly half of the respondents in Scotland (49%) felt that small talk is a thing of the past.
Responses from Scotland were spread across Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.
People in Edinburgh were most likely to appreciate a kind word from a stranger if they were visibly upset (68%), followed by Inverness (67%), Dundee (64%), Aberdeen (50%) and Glasgow (49%).
Overall, the weather was the go-to small talk topic of choice for those across all five Scottish cities, with sport, family, and TV following closely behind.
The data is released as part of the ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ campaign – a campaign by Samaritans, Network Rail, and British Transport Police to remind people to practice their small talk skills, as it could be a life-saving tool.
Small talk has a big impact. As part of the campaign, Samaritans volunteers will be visible in locations across Scotland, with pop-up events taking place in Wishaw, Glasgow, Kirkcaldy, Eyemouth, and Edinburgh during the week beginning 9th March, encouraging people to use small talk and check in on others.
A survey commissioned by Samaritans found that over three quarters (78%) of people in the UK admitted to having avoided small talk in the past, despite 59% of respondents stated they would appreciate kind words from a stranger if they were visibly upset, and two thirds (68%) of them said they would be more inclined to make small talk with a stranger if they knew it made a positive impact.
The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign, which Samaritans has run in partnership with Network Rail and British Transport Police since 2017, encourages the public to make some small talk with someone they think could be in distress, as your words could be a life-saving kit.
Dave Brown, Head of Rail at Samaritans, said: “We know that people are often worried about saying the wrong thing to someone who is visibly upset, but it’s always better to say something than nothing at all.
“A brief chat, about the weather, or asking someone where they can grab a coffee, can be all it takes to interrupt those negative thoughts. Your words are a life-saving kit.”
Matt Hosgood, Regional Rail Lead at Samaritans Scotland, said: “Samaritans ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ campaign returns for its ninth year. This campaign is delivered by the Samaritans rail team, in partnership with Network Rail and the British Transport Police.
“The campaign comes at a time where over half of UK adults say they would appreciate some kind words if they were visibly upset. With this in mind, we are encouraging members of the public to feel empowered to check in on each other, reinforcing how asking something as simple as “Do you know where I can get a coffee?” can be enough to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts, open up a conversation, and potentially save a life.
“Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and we all have a role to play to actively listen, show that we care and know where to signpost people for appropriate, timely support. Trust your instincts – if you see someone who might need help, stop and ask if they are okay, where it is safe to do so.
“Samaritans volunteers across Scotland will be visible in locations all over the country with a cup of tea or coffee, a biscuit and other goodies, as well as providing vital emotional support to anyone who might need it.
“Our trailer will be in Wishaw, Glasgow Forge, Kirkcaldy Galleries, Eyemouth Harbour and Edinburgh’s Bristo Square during the week beginning 9th March, so do pop by for a cuppa and a blether, as we work together to see that fewer people die by suicide.”
Louise McNally, principal suicide & trespass prevention specialist, said: “Millions of people pass through the rail network each day, and everyone single one of them could ask a simple question or say a friendly comment that could make all the difference.
“By encouraging colleagues and passengers to pause and start a conversation with someone that looks like they might need help, we’re encouraging people to make looking out for one another second nature and reminding them that small talk really can save lives.”
Superintendent Sam Painter, British Transport Police lead for Protecting Vulnerable People, said: “The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign reinforces the message that anyone can play a role in supporting vulnerable people, even through something as simple as a little small talk.
“We continue to work closely with Samaritans and Network Rail to ensure that those experiencing a mental health crisis receive timely and appropriate help.
“While a moment of small talk could help someone feel less alone, we also encourage anyone who sees a person they believe is in distress on the railway network to report it to us by texting 61016 or calling 999 in an emergency.”
For more information and tips, visit Samaritans.org/smalltalksaveslives or join the conversation on social media using #SmallTalkSavesLives
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT TEAMS UP WITH BLACK SCOTTISH ADVENTURERS FOUNDER TO HIGHLIGHT MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE OUTDOORS
The Scottish Government has announced a new collaboration with Joshua Adeyemi, founder of Black Scottish Adventurers.
The partnership comes as part of the nationwide Mind to Mind campaign which aims to help normalise conversations about mental health and share practical strategies for coping with life’s pressures.
The campaign sees a striking new sign installed at Edinburgh’s Haymarket Station featuring Josh’s words: “Out here, you’re enough”, intended to share a note of support that reflects the spirit of the Black Scottish Adventurers community and to spark conversations about mental wellbeing.
Research from See Me, Scotland’s programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination, explains that more than a quarter of people in Scotland believe it’s easier to avoid discussing mental health than risk an awkward conversation. One in five say fear of judgment stops them from speaking openly.
The Mind to Mind platform offers free, accessible guidance covering topics such as anxiety, grief, stress, loneliness, and financial worries. Visitors can explore personal stories, expert insights, and links to further help – all designed to be used at a pace that suits them.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Josh said: “Finding a community of like-minded individuals where I can talk about life struggles and be my authentic self has been so important on my journey towards understanding how to look after my mental wellbeing.
“The message says exactly what I hope people feel: Whilst being outdoors can’t fix everything, spending time amongst friendly faces, surrounded by Scotland’s awe-inspiring scenery is powerful, and I’ve seen how it helps lift people’s spirits to keep moving forward.
“Working with Mind to Mind has been brilliant as they offer so many resources available to everyone to help navigate the tougher moments in life.”
Josh noted that placing the sign in Edinburgh holds deep personal meaning as this is where Black Scottish Adventurers originated and where he currently lives. He hopes it inspires people to see nature as restorative and stresses that enjoying the outdoors can be as simple as listening to the birds in the park. In collaboration with Mind to Mind, Josh encourages others to access the website to discover the mental health support available.
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing, Tom Arthur MSP, said: “Mind to Mind is dedicated to ensuring that everyone in Scotland can access mental health strategies and support tailored to their needs.
“Josh’s commitment to inclusive outdoor experiences brings a fresh perspective to the campaign, helping to engage communities and encourage open conversations about mental health.
“Together with Mind to Mind, these efforts aim to empower individuals to take meaningful steps toward wellbeing.”
If you’re going through a difficult time, you are not alone.
Visit www.nhsinform.scot/mind-to-mind to hear from others and find support in a way that works for you.
The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition (SCSC), an alliance of leading providers of specialist care and education to vulnerable children and young people, has warned of a potential lost generation of children and young people with ASN, and urged greater resourcing for this group.
ASN includes the likes of autism, dyslexia and mental health problems, and the coalition has urged provision of support for this to be a central issue in the forthcoming Scottish Parliamentary election campaign.
The call comes as new figures contained in a parliamentary answer to the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Jenny Gilruth MSP, reveal that average additional support for learning (ASL) spend per pupil has been slashed by nearly a third (30.1 per cent) over the last decade.[1]This comes against a perfect storm of escalating numbers of pupils with ASN and cuts in support.
The SCSC is urging the Scottish Government to work with local authorities to increase funding to support the needs of vulnerable children and young people, including greater provision of specialist ASN teachers, educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, behaviour support staff and classroom assistants.
The figures highlight that average spending per pupil on ASL by local authorities in Scotland (primary, secondary and special education) has fallen from £5,504 in financial year 2014/15 to £3,804 in 2024/25 (based on 2024/5 prices). This amounts to an overall cut in spending of £1,700 per pupil, representing a 30.1 per cent drop.
This funding fall is against the backdrop of a 102 per cent increase over the same period in the number of pupils identified with ASN, from 140,501 to 284,448, amounting to 127,443 individuals. Those with ASNrepresent more than a third of all pupils (36.7 per cent).2
In parallel with this, there has been a cut of 240 in the number of specialists ASN teachers, from 3,077 in 2014 to 2,837 in 2024.3
A report from Audit Scotland has called on the Scottish Government and local authorities to fundamentally rethink how they plan, fund and staff additional support for learning as part of core school education in Scotland.4
In January 2026, the Scottish Government announced a national review into the provision of ASL, led by the former Chief Inspector of Education in Scotland, Janie McManus. This will look at how to strengthen delivery, including provision in schools, and how policy is translating into effective practice.5
A spokesperson for the SCSC commented: “It is deeply concerning to see cuts to spending that support children and young people with ASN. While there is a record amount of spending in support of those with ASN, this is offset by a dramatic increase in the number of pupils affected, meaning that spending per pupil has been slashed.
“We urge all political parties to make provision for this group a central commitment in their election campaigns.
It is vital that the Scottish Government and local authorities increase resources to expand access to the likes of specialist ASN teachers, educational psychologists, and classroom assistants. Without this investment, we risk a lost generation of children with ASN missing out on the care and support they need, when they need.
“Additionally, proper resourcing is essential if we are to achieve genuine classroom inclusion and close the educational attainment gap. We therefore expect that the national review of ASL provision should address the critical issue of sufficient resourcing.
“The Scottish Government and local authorities must work together to ensure properly funded, consistent support across Scotland for children and young people with ASN — some of the most vulnerable members of our society.”
NOTES
[1] Scottish Parliament, Jenny Gilruth MSP Written Answer- S6W-43553, table 5, 20th February 2026. Available at: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/questions-and-answers/question?ref=S6W-43553
2 Scottish Government, Pupil Census 2025 supplementary statistics, table 1.5, 9th December 2025.
3 Scottish Government, Teacher census supplementary statistics 2024, table 6.7, 25th March 2025. Available at: https://www.gov.scot/publications/teacher-census-supplementary-statistics/
4 Audit Scotland, Fundamental review needed of planning and resourcing of additional support for learning, 27th February 2025. Available at: https://audit.scot/news/fundamental-review-needed-of-planning-and-resourcing-of-additional-support-for-learning
5 Scottish Government, Delivering Additional Support for Learning, 15th January 2026. Available at: https://www.gov.scot/news/delivering-additional-support-for-learning/
In 2026, the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival celebrates its 20th year!
In 2026, the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival celebrates its 20th Year. Taking place from 19 October to 8 November, it’s an opportunity to recognise two decades of mental health and creativity while looking at where we are now and where we might go next.
Our theme for this milestone year, Reflections, invites artists, communities and audiences across Scotland to pause, take stock and explore how our experiences, stories and creativity shape our mental health, individually and collectively.
GET INVOLVED!
SMHAF takes place across Scotland and covers all artforms, reaching around 17,500 people each year. It spotlights art inspired by mental health, explores how the arts and creativity can help everyone to have better mental health, and provides a platform for everyone to be creative.
We’re inviting you – organisations, artists, communities and individuals – to help us bring our Reflections theme to life, and explore how looking back can help us imagine what comes next.
Whether you’re working on a creative project, have an idea for an event, would like to help develop your local programme, or want to talk about anything else, please get in touch at smhaf@mentalhealth.org.uk.
SMHAF is led by the Mental Health Foundation and is supported by Multi-Year Funding from @creativescots and national partners.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/4rz63we
A partnership of 17 leading Scottish mental health organisations is hosting a special online Hustings event to ensure that mental health is at the top of the political agenda ahead of the Scottish elections in May.
Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership will host the online Mental Health Hustings event on Monday 9th March between 1pm and 2.30pm.
The Hustings event will be an opportunity to hear Scotland’s political leaders discuss mental health, along with answering questions from attendees during a time when mental health has never mattered more.
Political leaders will detail their vision for the nation’s mental health and their plans to reform society to improve wellbeing for all.
Speakers will come from five Scottish political parties:
The Mental Health Hustings is a chance for people to engage with those responsible for shaping Scotland’s future.
Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership announced its manifesto late last year, ‘Scotland’s Mental Health: It’s Time For Action’, which presses the Scottish Government to address the current crisis and transform the country’s mental health in the longer term.
The manifesto states that mental health services are struggling to cope with an unprecedented increase in demand, with no corresponding increase in funding or resource, and a burnt-out workforce that is collectively creating a spike in waiting lists for support and treatment.
It has also expressed the need for commitment around increasing resources for early intervention and preventing, along with a choice of support, care and treatment in the right place and at the right time.
Other recommendations revolve around the Partnership’s 3Ps framework – Promote, Prevent and Provide – to tackle the mental health emergency.
Gordon Johnson, Policy Lead for Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership, said: “Mental health really has never mattered more. There is a mental health emergency in Scotland, and we need bold and decisive action to ensure that this crisis is addressed.
“The Hustings is an opportunity for people to have their voice heard – whether you’re a person with lived experience, working in mental health, a campaigner or someone who cares about Scotland’s future.
“Scotland needs radical change. That starts will voices in the room. We look forward to this conversation between attendees and speakers at the Hustings, and we will work hard to ensure that mental health is at the top of the political agenda ahead of this election and beyond.”
Scotland’s Mental Health Partnership (SMHP) is made up of seventeen (17) professional bodies and mental health third sector organisations.
Our members represent, among others, those with lived experience, providers, clinical professionals, carers, community support networks and the wider third sector. Each organisation contributes its direct experience and unique perspective to create an informed collective voice on mental health.
The Partnership was developed out of a collective desire to offer new perspectives and a progressive vision for mental health in Scotland. It is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of people across Scotland and, in line with the Christie Commission recommendations, promote the prevention of mental health issues and early intervention where problems do arise.
Further details can be found on our website: www.smhp.scot.
The organisations include:
The Scottish Government’s Mind to Mind mental wellbeing campaign is encouraging people across the country to look after their mental health.
Latest available data highlights the ongoing challenges many face in opening up about their mental health. The research from See Me reveals that more than a quarter of Scots feel that not talking about their mental health is better than having an awkward conversation, whilst one in five are held back from talking about how they feel by a fear of being judged.
The campaign aims to remind everyone that they are not alone and that help and support are available, especially for those who find it difficult to talk about how they are feeling.
Mind to Mind offers a helpful starting point for anyone struggling. The campaign directs people to a dedicated NHS Inform site, where they can explore resources in their own time and from spaces they feel comfortable in.
The Mind to Mind site features over thirty videos of people sharing their personal stories. These ‘lived experiences’ are especially important when considering that fear of being a burden prevents nearly a third of people from discussing their wellbeing.
By seeing others share their journeys, individuals are reminded that their feelings are valid. In addition, the site also provides practical advice from contributors on what has helped them, alongside commentary from a range of professionals and clear signposting to further help and support services.
These resources cover topics from dealing with anxiety and panic, coping with money worries and stress, to navigating loneliness and grief.
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing, Tom Arthur, MSP, said: “With this campaign, we want to send a clear message to everyone in Scotland that support is always available and it’s okay not to be okay.
“We know that taking the first step and talking about things can be the hardest part. The Mind to Mind website helps bridge that gap by offering compassionate advice and powerful stories from people who have been through similar experiences.
“It is an invaluable resource that empowers people to find support in a way that works for them, reminding us all that we are not alone.”
The campaign acknowledges that mental health discussion and stigma can manifest differently across communities, and remains a highly stigmatised topic within many communities. Mind to Mind aims to support everyone, recognising the diversity of experiences to help reduce this stigma.
If you are going through a difficult time, you are not alone. Find out how others are taking care of their mental wellbeing at www.nhsinform.scot/mind-to-mind.
People in Edinburgh are encouraged to swap their slippers for their trainers this February and take part in Jog 28, a month-long challenge designed to boost physical health, mental wellbeing, and support vital mental health work.
Jog 28 runs throughout February and invites participants to complete 28 miles over 28 days. The challenge is free to join and open to all ages and abilities. Entrants are encouraged to register soon with the start of challenge just days away.
Participants can jog, walk, or run their miles at their own pace, making it an easy way to stay active and connected.
Fiona Halton, Head of Fundraising at Mental Health Foundation, said: “Whether you want to keep up the momentum of a great start to 2026, or like many of us, are getting through the gruelling first weeks of January and are primed to get up and moving; the Mental Health Foundation has got you covered with Jog 28, a challenge fundraiser that supports not just your physical health and mental wellbeing, but the vital work of the charity.
“We are inviting the people of Edinburgh to join us on Jog 28. This challenge is about turning up for yourselves; by moving, taking in your surroundings and taking care of your physical health, which will in turn boost your mental wellbeing.
Fiona adds: “Things are always easier when shared, and we know connection is key for good mental health.
“Jog 28 is a perfect opportunity to step out with a friend and catch up whilst improving your wellbeing. Plus, we know that it’s harder to talk past jogging pace – so keep it steady, and you’ll be able to jog and have a natter!
“Everyone deserves good mental health and every step you on take this challenge will help us build a society where everyone can thrive.
“We are not far away from February and the start of the challenge, so make sure you register in time to take part!”
Challenge details:
There’s no registration fee, and participants can sign up at any time. Register now and receive a free Mental Health Foundation T-shirt (while stocks last). Anyone who raises at least £30 will get a free beanie.
Why take part in Jog 28?
For more information and to sign up, visit mentalhealth.org.uk/Jog28
